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The Dark Citadel #1
The Dark Citadel
A slave boy named Darik falls in with a pair of spies as the great city of Balsalom comes under siege by the armies of a dark wizard. They flee west to enlist the aid of griffin riders, an order of wizards, and a band of ascetic knights to come to the city's defense. Meanwhile, a young queen named Kallia leads a heroic struggle to keep both her city and body free from the dark wizard's cruel embrace. The first book of a new epic fantasy series by top 20 Amazon bestselling author Michael Wallace, The Dark Citadel combines a rich fantasy world with page-turning plot and flawed, heroic characters.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2011
153 people are currently reading
1592 people want to read
About the author
Michael Wallace
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Michael also welcomes email from readers at m.wallace23(at)yahoo(dot)com.
Michael also welcomes email from readers at m.wallace23(at)yahoo(dot)com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 20, 2015
For the most part I enjoyed this book and liked the idea of the story, but at the same time found it very frustrating. The character development was none existent. I almost gave up on the book almost half way through it because it was so confusing jumping from one character the the next and not having any connection between them or what time frame it was. I think the idea behind this book was good but it wasn't written well, needed ideas to be developed better. Won't be reading the rest of the series.
August 7, 2017
I was never completely sure who held the role of Main Character. Was it Darik, the slave boy from the beginning of the story? Was it Whelan, the outcast warrior who took him under his wing? Was it Kallia, the queen of Balsalom who made a deal with the devil to save her city?
Given how much "screen time" was given to the different characters, my bet is on Whelan or Kallia.
I was initially intrigued by the "Arabian Nights" vibe of the setting and characters, along with the Merlin-esque sorcerers, but the subplots seemed to shift with each chapter, and I never felt like I got a handle on the overarching story line.
What I Liked:
The writing is clear, not overly florid like some books I've read. The settings felt grounded in real places around the globe; described by someone with a clear vision of what this world looked like. The protagonists are likable. I found them to be more than one-dimensional, but less than two- or three-dimensional. I enjoyed the descriptions of mythical creatures. Darik's reactions to attractive girls his age felt authentic in their awkwardness and eagerness.
What I Didn't Like:
Some of the historical relevance info-dumps seemed anecdotal; unnecessary or unrelated to the moment. I found the villain(s) to be cliche, but effective in creating the desired loathing one should feel towards them.
I gave "The Dark Citadel" three stars, and wish nothing but success to Mr. Wallace in his future writing endeavors.
Given how much "screen time" was given to the different characters, my bet is on Whelan or Kallia.
I was initially intrigued by the "Arabian Nights" vibe of the setting and characters, along with the Merlin-esque sorcerers, but the subplots seemed to shift with each chapter, and I never felt like I got a handle on the overarching story line.
What I Liked:
The writing is clear, not overly florid like some books I've read. The settings felt grounded in real places around the globe; described by someone with a clear vision of what this world looked like. The protagonists are likable. I found them to be more than one-dimensional, but less than two- or three-dimensional. I enjoyed the descriptions of mythical creatures. Darik's reactions to attractive girls his age felt authentic in their awkwardness and eagerness.
What I Didn't Like:
Some of the historical relevance info-dumps seemed anecdotal; unnecessary or unrelated to the moment. I found the villain(s) to be cliche, but effective in creating the desired loathing one should feel towards them.
I gave "The Dark Citadel" three stars, and wish nothing but success to Mr. Wallace in his future writing endeavors.
August 11, 2015
I struggled with this one too. I've read the GoT books, but they've got nothing on this series for confusing names and endlessly switching plot points as they go through a huge cast of characters.
The problem with this is the same as with the GoT books - you just don't get to spend enough time with any one character to really care about them, and by the time you get into the good stuff, you're skipping around to see if anything happens, and by then, you've lost the back story, and then you miss the really good parts the author has included.
One I found myself skipping around like that I decided to stop. I'm sure its a great series and the people who've read it really enjoyed it, but its not for me.
The problem with this is the same as with the GoT books - you just don't get to spend enough time with any one character to really care about them, and by the time you get into the good stuff, you're skipping around to see if anything happens, and by then, you've lost the back story, and then you miss the really good parts the author has included.
One I found myself skipping around like that I decided to stop. I'm sure its a great series and the people who've read it really enjoyed it, but its not for me.
May 11, 2017
Great Sword and Sorcery Novel --New Series
Michael Wallace begins a nice, new, exciting S&S epic with this novel. In this first volume, it is a story of loss, shame, and resistance to illegitimate authority. We get to meet the scions of several dynasties...some at their best...most at their worst!
The land was once a mighty empire which fell under the sway of an evil emperor. Following rebellions and conquests, a half millennia later, mankind has built many small kingdoms in the few areas still fruitful. These societies follow several different forms. A few seem to be following the European medieval model. Others, slightly more enlightened, have adopted caliphates (with slavery). Still others seem to have developed different social norms.
As this book begins, conflict has been ignored as a particularly evil wizard struggles to overcome the kingdoms and create his Empire.
I really enjoyed this particular novel, but I was somewhat irritated by veiled references to a history that I feel was never explained to my satisfaction. I think the author is managing a little foreshadowing, or wetting our appetites for background information.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED AS: SWORD & SORCERY SERIES, VOLUME 1
Michael Wallace begins a nice, new, exciting S&S epic with this novel. In this first volume, it is a story of loss, shame, and resistance to illegitimate authority. We get to meet the scions of several dynasties...some at their best...most at their worst!
The land was once a mighty empire which fell under the sway of an evil emperor. Following rebellions and conquests, a half millennia later, mankind has built many small kingdoms in the few areas still fruitful. These societies follow several different forms. A few seem to be following the European medieval model. Others, slightly more enlightened, have adopted caliphates (with slavery). Still others seem to have developed different social norms.
As this book begins, conflict has been ignored as a particularly evil wizard struggles to overcome the kingdoms and create his Empire.
I really enjoyed this particular novel, but I was somewhat irritated by veiled references to a history that I feel was never explained to my satisfaction. I think the author is managing a little foreshadowing, or wetting our appetites for background information.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED AS: SWORD & SORCERY SERIES, VOLUME 1
August 13, 2020
The first book of The Dark Citadel series was interesting and I'm certainly going to read the rest of the series. However, though well made, it just felt like your average medieval story with knights, monsters, magic and and a main character trying to prove/redeem themselves. It was just bland in that respect.
Throughout the book, we alternate between Kalia and Darik’s perspectives, which I found as a great idea. The fact that we leave one story to see another gets you wondering “What's going to happen to Darik?” as you read about Kalia, or vice versa, which keeps you turning the page. The only problem I have is that in the last chapter, we go into Markals view. This was odd and I found it kind of undermining. I get that the author wanted to talk about Cragyn’s whereabouts, but at least do it in an epilogue rather than call it a chapter. It breaks the cycle of alternating the two main characters points of view.
I recommend this book to anyone who just needs something to pass the time. The scenery and plot is fine and will keep you reading, but so far the only distinctive feature between this book and other fantasies is the view alternation.
Throughout the book, we alternate between Kalia and Darik’s perspectives, which I found as a great idea. The fact that we leave one story to see another gets you wondering “What's going to happen to Darik?” as you read about Kalia, or vice versa, which keeps you turning the page. The only problem I have is that in the last chapter, we go into Markals view. This was odd and I found it kind of undermining. I get that the author wanted to talk about Cragyn’s whereabouts, but at least do it in an epilogue rather than call it a chapter. It breaks the cycle of alternating the two main characters points of view.
I recommend this book to anyone who just needs something to pass the time. The scenery and plot is fine and will keep you reading, but so far the only distinctive feature between this book and other fantasies is the view alternation.
March 14, 2024
After a false start I had to reread the first couple chapters again as I couldn't follow the plot then I realised I was reading two different perspectives which later came together, once I figured out what was happening I found it easier to follow, but at first I was thinking I would have to dnf I am however that I could rectify that false start and now firmly in the grasp of the drama magic mystery and mayhem of the dark citadel.
From my preferred genres of reading I think this has actually broadened the realm of even my fantasy genre I want to call this high fantasy as I'm very into things with bite and witchiness but this is more, similar to another recent read but I digress and it's on to the second book.
From my preferred genres of reading I think this has actually broadened the realm of even my fantasy genre I want to call this high fantasy as I'm very into things with bite and witchiness but this is more, similar to another recent read but I digress and it's on to the second book.
August 24, 2017
The plot got better as you got deeper into the book, then it suddenly seemed to end, leaving the reader hanging. Obviously it's a series, but it left the reader at a loss.
There are some good characters built into it. The antagonist came and went very quickly, perhaps they feature more in the future books.
All in all, I enjoyed the plot as it unfolded, but things seemed to happen that didn't go anywhere. I think perhaps it was following too many characters so you could not decide who was the main one. Not that I mind having lots of main characters, but I got a little lost in who was doing what and why.
There are some good characters built into it. The antagonist came and went very quickly, perhaps they feature more in the future books.
All in all, I enjoyed the plot as it unfolded, but things seemed to happen that didn't go anywhere. I think perhaps it was following too many characters so you could not decide who was the main one. Not that I mind having lots of main characters, but I got a little lost in who was doing what and why.
June 9, 2018
Reminiscent of Tolkien.
This is a definite beginning of an epic tale. The character building through the story was well done and the storyline moved at a good pace. I put #2 on my wish list.
This is a definite beginning of an epic tale. The character building through the story was well done and the storyline moved at a good pace. I put #2 on my wish list.
August 20, 2017
LOVE IT! Just what I needed, a good long epic filled with magic, fantasy, and all that good stuff! yay!
March 7, 2018
Started well but violent for violence sake and overly dramatic. It just felt a bit much. Probably won't finish the series sadly.
June 11, 2021
I enjoyed this book even though it switched between characters almost every chapter. I would like to read the rest of the series to see where it goes.
January 1, 2015
Dragon Wasps, Griffins, Wights---Oh My!
WARNING: I'll be talking about actual things that happen in the story, but not the ending. So it doesn't have true spoilers, but it's borderline. Read at your own risk.
~~~
What I Had Trouble With
The Pacing
In the very beginning of the book, Wallace hits the ground running like a thriller. We're introduced to the antagonist, Cragyn, as he stakes his claim to the Citadel. And Wallace wastes no words in depicting just how evil this dark wizard is, and how he'll do anything and everything to get the power he wants---like a really evil protagonist should.
Right after the prologue, the pacing slows down, and Darik, one of our point-of-view protagonists, is introduced. At this point, I'm completely fine with the slower pace. I'm being introduced to a new character, new setting, and new time. I need a bit of recovery time from the antagonist and his dark personality.
But what I didn't like about getting to know Darik was that even though the pacing is slowed down, it still felt rushed. His story of how he fell from riches and became a slave felt like it was being suffocated. I would rather have the entire story beforehand in great detail, or be introduced to Darik as a slave already, with hints of his past life given in his characterization.
Darik vs Kallia
I connected more with Kallia as a protagonist, because she's a proactive character that actively tries to resist bowing down to her enemies. Even when Cragyn is at the foot of her door, she fights back and stands up to him. She acts. Darik, as a protagonist, I had more trouble connecting with, because while he does help the wizards in the novel, he "falls in with a pair of spies." In other words, while I understand that Darik's a young boy, and the youth in Wallace's novel are seen more as liabilities than capable warriors, I wasn't too clear on his motivations. I know that he wanted to escape being a slave, but what makes him stay and join a battle against an evil wizard? It just feels like he's swept along for the ride, and he's there only for the the reader's benefit of seeing the rest of the story world...
Which is, actually what I liked a lot about this book.
What I Liked
The Writing and the World
Wallace has great technical writing skills. His worldbuilding is very rich and careful, and his writing equally so. Though some moments are rushed, the moments that Wallace takes care of are really taken care of. I particularly loved the moment when Darik got lost in the Desolation of Toth. I thought the description there was really haunting and vivid, as it should be for a desert of magical and spiritual aftermath.
Verdict
The Dark Citadel by Michael Wallace is, without a doubt, a fantasy. Mystical creatures and magic abound, Wallace's novel is exactly as it claims: the story of Darik, a slave boy who "falls in with a pair of spies as the great city of Balsalom comes under siege by the armies of a dark wizard," and "a young queen named Kallia" who "leads a heroic struggle to keep both her city and body free from the dark wizard's cruel embrace." As a technical writer, Wallace delivers on both accounts, sprinkling in dark themes, a little blooming romance, and even and a bit of humor throughout.
While I still thought there were some structural hiccups, I have to admit that it was still a good read.
WARNING: I'll be talking about actual things that happen in the story, but not the ending. So it doesn't have true spoilers, but it's borderline. Read at your own risk.
~~~
What I Had Trouble With
The Pacing
In the very beginning of the book, Wallace hits the ground running like a thriller. We're introduced to the antagonist, Cragyn, as he stakes his claim to the Citadel. And Wallace wastes no words in depicting just how evil this dark wizard is, and how he'll do anything and everything to get the power he wants---like a really evil protagonist should.
Right after the prologue, the pacing slows down, and Darik, one of our point-of-view protagonists, is introduced. At this point, I'm completely fine with the slower pace. I'm being introduced to a new character, new setting, and new time. I need a bit of recovery time from the antagonist and his dark personality.
But what I didn't like about getting to know Darik was that even though the pacing is slowed down, it still felt rushed. His story of how he fell from riches and became a slave felt like it was being suffocated. I would rather have the entire story beforehand in great detail, or be introduced to Darik as a slave already, with hints of his past life given in his characterization.
Darik vs Kallia
I connected more with Kallia as a protagonist, because she's a proactive character that actively tries to resist bowing down to her enemies. Even when Cragyn is at the foot of her door, she fights back and stands up to him. She acts. Darik, as a protagonist, I had more trouble connecting with, because while he does help the wizards in the novel, he "falls in with a pair of spies." In other words, while I understand that Darik's a young boy, and the youth in Wallace's novel are seen more as liabilities than capable warriors, I wasn't too clear on his motivations. I know that he wanted to escape being a slave, but what makes him stay and join a battle against an evil wizard? It just feels like he's swept along for the ride, and he's there only for the the reader's benefit of seeing the rest of the story world...
Which is, actually what I liked a lot about this book.
What I Liked
The Writing and the World
Wallace has great technical writing skills. His worldbuilding is very rich and careful, and his writing equally so. Though some moments are rushed, the moments that Wallace takes care of are really taken care of. I particularly loved the moment when Darik got lost in the Desolation of Toth. I thought the description there was really haunting and vivid, as it should be for a desert of magical and spiritual aftermath.
Verdict
The Dark Citadel by Michael Wallace is, without a doubt, a fantasy. Mystical creatures and magic abound, Wallace's novel is exactly as it claims: the story of Darik, a slave boy who "falls in with a pair of spies as the great city of Balsalom comes under siege by the armies of a dark wizard," and "a young queen named Kallia" who "leads a heroic struggle to keep both her city and body free from the dark wizard's cruel embrace." As a technical writer, Wallace delivers on both accounts, sprinkling in dark themes, a little blooming romance, and even and a bit of humor throughout.
While I still thought there were some structural hiccups, I have to admit that it was still a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2015
This was a nice, easy read... and that's pretty much it.
It could have been fleshed out a lot more in many places. Action and fight scenes moved too fast for me to really comprehend what was going on, and by the time I had it down, it was over. There was too much character backstory dumped at once, and then never touched again. Then there's the history of the setting... way, way too much. It's great that the author has a long, deep, and detailed history of all the cities, kingdoms, and people that inhabit this world... but I didn't need to know all of it, and there were points where it was just thrown in there for no reason. Less is more, when it comes to that sort of information dump, and at the very least it needed to be relevant to what was going on action-wise, which is generally was not.
There was not enough depth of character, or time spent really getting to know characters, so I didn't really come to care for any of them. Too much telling, not enough showing, and each character was mostly defined by a few basic traits.
The time jumps were also confusing, chapters moving backwards and forwards in time as we jumped characters without much to orientate the reader. Timing was also pretty unrealistic... I think the main action of the novel took place in the space of a week to ten days, but I honestly don't really know. It jumped around too much and was never really defined.
So more than a novel, this was just a dump of information about a fantasy world and their history with some characters and story-line thrown in. I didn't care enough about the story or the characters, so I won't be picking up anything in this story, or probably form this author, again.
It could have been fleshed out a lot more in many places. Action and fight scenes moved too fast for me to really comprehend what was going on, and by the time I had it down, it was over. There was too much character backstory dumped at once, and then never touched again. Then there's the history of the setting... way, way too much. It's great that the author has a long, deep, and detailed history of all the cities, kingdoms, and people that inhabit this world... but I didn't need to know all of it, and there were points where it was just thrown in there for no reason. Less is more, when it comes to that sort of information dump, and at the very least it needed to be relevant to what was going on action-wise, which is generally was not.
There was not enough depth of character, or time spent really getting to know characters, so I didn't really come to care for any of them. Too much telling, not enough showing, and each character was mostly defined by a few basic traits.
The time jumps were also confusing, chapters moving backwards and forwards in time as we jumped characters without much to orientate the reader. Timing was also pretty unrealistic... I think the main action of the novel took place in the space of a week to ten days, but I honestly don't really know. It jumped around too much and was never really defined.
So more than a novel, this was just a dump of information about a fantasy world and their history with some characters and story-line thrown in. I didn't care enough about the story or the characters, so I won't be picking up anything in this story, or probably form this author, again.
September 4, 2014
3.5/4 stars
A fantasy book with war, wizards, dark magic and some seriously powerful books. A war has been waged, after losing her father Kalia would have no expectation of what was to come. Family ties may not be made so strong when power and a kingdom are involved. A gripping tale with adventure, chaos and mayhem galore. A feast for a fantasy lover!
Though this book originally took me a while to really get into, it was worth sticking with. A big part of my problem was the sheer amount of characters with confusing names (trust me this isn't usually a problem, I've read the Game of Thrones series) which took a while to recognise and fully come to terms with. As I said, this was worth persevering with though, as they became familiar it was much less taxing on the old brain!
It was a well paced narrative which for the most part kept me engaged. I did well sticking with this as my Kindle crashed several times whilst reading making it even harder to read! Not a fun experience, but nevertheless the plot made up for it and it had some brilliant twists and turns.
The ending didn't really feel like an ending, I am well aware that this is part of a series but it was a bit, well... abrupt. It just didn't seem to satisfy me though I was intrigued to find out more, I don't think this is a series I will be continuing to follow.
A fantasy book with war, wizards, dark magic and some seriously powerful books. A war has been waged, after losing her father Kalia would have no expectation of what was to come. Family ties may not be made so strong when power and a kingdom are involved. A gripping tale with adventure, chaos and mayhem galore. A feast for a fantasy lover!
Though this book originally took me a while to really get into, it was worth sticking with. A big part of my problem was the sheer amount of characters with confusing names (trust me this isn't usually a problem, I've read the Game of Thrones series) which took a while to recognise and fully come to terms with. As I said, this was worth persevering with though, as they became familiar it was much less taxing on the old brain!
It was a well paced narrative which for the most part kept me engaged. I did well sticking with this as my Kindle crashed several times whilst reading making it even harder to read! Not a fun experience, but nevertheless the plot made up for it and it had some brilliant twists and turns.
The ending didn't really feel like an ending, I am well aware that this is part of a series but it was a bit, well... abrupt. It just didn't seem to satisfy me though I was intrigued to find out more, I don't think this is a series I will be continuing to follow.
February 12, 2013
This was another Amazon freebie that I decided to check out, and I'm very glad that I did.
Easy read, good enough story that I will buy the next book in the series. It opens with Darik, a wealthy merchant's son who has seen his father basically give up after the death of his mother, and loses everything. Darik, his father and sister are all sold into slavery, where Darik meets up with two fellow slaves who are more than they seem.
The city where this book is set, Balasalom is lead by Kallia, who never expected to inherit her father's rule. The city is attacked and overrun by Cragyn, a dark wizard, who forces her into a marraige, then departs the city to conquer the rest of the lands, but not before impregnating her.
Darik and his associates have escaped the city, but are working to help defeat the dark wizard.
Easy read, good enough story that I will buy the next book in the series. It opens with Darik, a wealthy merchant's son who has seen his father basically give up after the death of his mother, and loses everything. Darik, his father and sister are all sold into slavery, where Darik meets up with two fellow slaves who are more than they seem.
The city where this book is set, Balasalom is lead by Kallia, who never expected to inherit her father's rule. The city is attacked and overrun by Cragyn, a dark wizard, who forces her into a marraige, then departs the city to conquer the rest of the lands, but not before impregnating her.
Darik and his associates have escaped the city, but are working to help defeat the dark wizard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2016
My rating would be 3.5/5 stars.
This was an interesting and enjoyable story. Some reviewers describe it similar to Game of Thrones, and I would tend to agree with them.
I also agree with those who mention the detail and background of the characters is a little vague. There are a number of them with unusual names, which take a bit of getting used to.
The story line was great, however it jumped about all over the place from one character to the next. I felt it could have gone more in depth at times, and less in others.
It was an easy read and I would recommend it to those who enjoy fantasy, particularly those who enjoyed Game of Thrones type stories. I will likely read the others in the series at some point.
This was an interesting and enjoyable story. Some reviewers describe it similar to Game of Thrones, and I would tend to agree with them.
I also agree with those who mention the detail and background of the characters is a little vague. There are a number of them with unusual names, which take a bit of getting used to.
The story line was great, however it jumped about all over the place from one character to the next. I felt it could have gone more in depth at times, and less in others.
It was an easy read and I would recommend it to those who enjoy fantasy, particularly those who enjoyed Game of Thrones type stories. I will likely read the others in the series at some point.
July 15, 2014
This was a very enjoyable book. It was a cheapo part of a compilation that I'm gradually working through. This one was a winner. I enjoyed the character development and world creation. There are griffins and wizards and the bad guy of course is a dark wizard. It also has the feel of the middle ages along with the Arab culture of the middle east. I wasn't sure at first but then I really enjoyed it. I am planning on finding the next couple in the series to read and get closure on the story.
March 15, 2016
Michael Wallace is one of my favorite authors and I've generally enjoyed all of his books, whether it was the Righteous series, Crow Hollow or his Starship Blackbeard SF series. The only book that I thought was so-so was The Red Rooster. The Dark Citadel is another book that I'm not sure about. The writing is not as compelling as in his best books and the fantasy seems trite and so far, uninspired. Since I have the three volume Dark Citadel Omnibus, I'm going to keep going and see if the second book improves on this start.
August 29, 2012
This novel is all the things loveable about adult fantasy stories without the drawn out purple prose. Epic battles, magic relics, wizards, griffons, knights, undead, love, and a quest!
The characters are easily likable, yes even the evil ones. This along with the quick pace, will make you wonder how you reached the end so quickly and leave you craving to know what happens next.
One thing I personally loved was the amount of humor. Plenty of things to literally make me laugh out loud.
The characters are easily likable, yes even the evil ones. This along with the quick pace, will make you wonder how you reached the end so quickly and leave you craving to know what happens next.
One thing I personally loved was the amount of humor. Plenty of things to literally make me laugh out loud.
October 20, 2014
Started reading this as part of a collection of books and halfway through thought this would be a one off. However second half had me hooked big time and have invested in the rest of the series with book 5 on back order. It really took off in the second half. Setting the scene could have been a little stronger in the first half though. Now reading book two and it is good. Plot twists are that no one seems to be safe, especially characters that end up as favourites.
January 8, 2014
I enjoyed this book. A good mix of really good 'guys' and bad guys. I love the commitment of the queen and all she does to care for her people. That's real leadership!! (Some of our leaders could take an example!!) The bad guys aren't too slimy but very interesting. Looking forward to reading more.
September 4, 2014
I just couldn't put the book down. The author wrote on the lines of Lord of the Rings, in that time frame. Anyone that loves books in this theme will be thrilled to the last page, and wanting more.
I am definitely going to keep my eyes open for more as this is just the first in the series. Well done Michael
I am definitely going to keep my eyes open for more as this is just the first in the series. Well done Michael
May 8, 2015
The story was well written and founded. It started out slow and I had trouble with all of the characters to know which are the ones that matter ect. But the characters had a lot of personalities and depth. They grew well as the story progressed. I especially liked Kallia. The book was an enjoyable read and I will have to buy the next books in the series to know how things end. :)
February 1, 2014
For the reader who likes magic, black wizards, griffins, wights, Harvester of Souls, and a steel book of secrets, this is a book for them. There are epic battles and strong characters. First book in the Dark Citadel series. Definitely worth a read.
April 28, 2014
This book, tumbled upon by chance, was a pleasant delight.
Reminding me of A song of ice and fire, crossed with the Septimus Heape books and even reminiscent of The sword of truth series.
Well written, with strong plots and likeable characters, I recommend this book to all readers, young or old.
Reminding me of A song of ice and fire, crossed with the Septimus Heape books and even reminiscent of The sword of truth series.
Well written, with strong plots and likeable characters, I recommend this book to all readers, young or old.
June 9, 2014
This was an interesting adventure, told from a few different points of view to add to the excitement. Swords, sorcery, sand, Griffins, dragon wasps, battles, murder, secrets, scandals and mayhem abound! Enjoyed all the characters, good/bad or otherwise.
October 5, 2014
An interesting fantasy read. I really enjoyed the milieu that was created, a combination Arabic/medieval Europe. This was the first book in the series, so the characters were not fleshed out that well. I am interested in the next book now.
February 25, 2015
Could be an interesting series. It was a free book in both IBooks and Amazon. It is a saga that continues in several other books but this one feels it ends feeling more like an installment then a stand alone book.
November 9, 2015
Book one in this excellent fantasy series. Wizards, dragon wasps and giants stirred in a brilliantly mixed story batter. Some laugh out loud lines and creative images. I am already halfway through the second book. Highly recommended PS... the first book was a free KOBO download!
October 11, 2015
Interesting magic and variance within, cool setting, so far seems like a well thought out world and history. Nice characterizations, with good people making both good and bad choices. Wonder where some threads are going! Will likely pick up the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews